Next, a person transitions to asymptomatic or chronic HIV infection. In this second stage, the virus is often dormant and multiplies more slowly. Often, no symptoms are seen, but the virus can still be transmitted to others.
The third stage of HIV infection is AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). AIDS is the deadly part of the disease because the body is defenseless against infection. When a person has AIDS, they will develop a fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and feel weak. Severe weight loss, or wasting, is common. Plus, T-cells are extremely low. And without treatment, they will die in up to three years from a disease that the body was unable to fight, such as pneumonia.
While there’s still no cure for HIV, some pretty amazing breakthroughs have taken place. In fact, these breakthroughs are allowing people to live long and healthy lives, while managing this chronic disease. And those who are HIV-negative but may be at risk can take precautions to reduce the chance of contracting HIV in the first place.
Check out these four breakthroughs that are miraculous in the way of HIV prevention and protection. But they aren't for everyone, and a doctor can advise you of your risk and whether these treatments are for you.
- PrEP
We often wonder how mixed-status couples manage to have healthy sex lives without transmitting the disease to the uninfected partner. Condoms were once the only method of preventing infection. However, a breakthrough method of prevention has now changed the game in this respect.